Saint-Maximin misses out as Magpies face City test

Last updated : 19 December 2021 By C. Morris

Playmaker only fit enough for the bench

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has made five changes to the side that lost at Anfield on Thursday for todays clash with table-topping Manchester City.

As was suspected, Allan Saint-Maximin is not fit enough to start due to a slight injury but he will be available from the bench. Wilson, Willock, Ritchie, Almiron and Clark all return to the starting eleven.

Manchester City come to St James’ Park off the back of a 7-0 mauling of Leeds United. Pep Guardiola has made three changes to that winning eleven, Cancelo, Sterling and Jesus come in at the expense of Stones, Grealish and Foden.

The Magpies would move level on points with 4th-bottom Watford if they could conjure up a surprise win against the Premier League champions this afternoon.